断网

• Pinyin: duàn wǎng
• Hanzi breakdown: 断 (cut off) + 网 (network) -> network connection cut.

Meaning

To lose internet connection or be disconnected from the network.

It can refer to technical failure, intentional offline time, or jokingly being out of touch with news. The meaning depends on context.

Examples

1. 家里突然断网，会议差点开不了。 The internet suddenly went down at home, and the meeting almost couldn't start.
2. 周末我想断网一天，好好休息。 At the weekend, I want to go offline for a day and get some proper rest.
3. 几天没看消息，像断网了一样。 I haven't checked messages for a few days; it feels like I've been offline.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, workplace, daily life

Tone: practical, sometimes humorous

Do Say

• 断网后先重启路由器。（Restart the router after losing internet.）
• 我想短暂断网，专心休息。（I want to go offline briefly and rest.）

Don't Say

• 把平台消息没看见都推给断网。（It may sound like an excuse if untrue.）

Common Mistakes

• Confusing it with power outage; 断网 specifically concerns network access.

Origin & History

Standard tech phrase from 断, "cut off," and 网, "network/internet."

Cultural Context

Era: 2000s-2020s

Generation: All internet users

Social background: Broadly used

Regional notes: Common throughout Mainland China.